Giant Hogweed

Posted by Dave Kilbey on Monday, July 20, 2015 - 09:29

You may have noticed the flurry of press coverage over Giant Hogweed in recent days? A series of accidents involving children have resulted in some well overdue press coverage about this highly toxic plant. It is a relatively common non-native invasive species, often found growing along rivers and streams and on waste ground.

You can record all sightings with PlantTracker but you should also report it to the land owner. Although there is no obligation for them to remove the plants councils should respond rapidly if it's on their land due to the considerable health risks.

The following article contains some alarming images of the damage the plant can do - the result of the plant's sap causing skin to become ultra sensitive to sunlight. It goes without saying that you shouldn't touch or attempt to remove any plants you think might be giant hogweed.